#PhantomSpell

Dad Wood :damnified:đŸ‡ȘđŸ‡șDad_Wood@metalhead.club
2025-12-17

RE: metalhead.club/@NoRestfortheWi

Also #PhantomSpell ist mal so richtig gut! Von Zeit zu Zeit mag ich’s einfach genau so! Als hĂ€tten #Kansas und #SpocksBeard ein Kind bekommen. Mit a bissl Powermetal dazu. Sehr gutđŸ€˜

2025-11-14

Wytch Hazel: Heaven & Spell tour 2026 with special guests Phantom Spell

Wytch Hazel are set to embark on their first headline tour in spring 2026, following the critical success of their fifth album V: Lamentations. The Heaven & Spell Tour will see the band perform across Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, joined by Phantom Spell for a run of dates that promises to be both immersive and unforgettable.

This is a huge moment for us. I’m absolutely thrilled to be announcing our very first headline tour. We’re joined by friends and kindred spirits Phantom Spell—I couldn’t imagine a better pairing. We’re already putting everything into making these shows truly special. I can’t wait to see our amazing fans on this run of dates. – Frontman Colin Hendra.

The tour brings together two acts with deep roots in the UK’s underground metal scene. Hendra and Phantom Spell’s Kyle McNeal have shared stages and creative visions since the early 2010s, when Wytch Hazel and Seven Sisters first began to draw attention for their distinctive sound and commitment to classic influences.

Audiences can expect a journey through musical landscapes shaped by medieval imagery, spiritual themes and the golden age of 1970s rock. The Heaven & Spell Tour is a celebration of storytelling, atmosphere and the enduring power of melody. It is a rare chance to experience two bands at the height of their creative powers, offering a glimpse into other worlds through sound.

Tickets are available via Dragon Productions: https://vivenu.com/seller/dragon-productions-uwxk

Wytch Hazel: https://wytchhazel.com/

Phantom Spell: https://linktr.ee/phantomspell

#dragonProductions #hardRock #HeavenSpellTour #HeavyMetal #NWOTHM #PhantomSpell #progRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #WytchHazel

2025-11-07

The top 50 NWOTHM albums of all time!

Gage J. Tolin

28–42 minutes

The New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal is a hard genre to make this sort of list for. It has no definite start point or even any real sound continuity between artists within the movement. In many ways, NWOTHM is less of a genre and more of a movement for bands within the community to say ‘f*ck you!’ to major labels, and over-produced corporate schlock, and return to the DIY ethos that made heavy metal so great and part of what made it appeal to so many. Because of that, you may see some artists on this list who don’t quite fit the mold for what you might believe NWOTHM truly is. After painstakingly combing the internet for reviews, mentions, and even little anecdotes for over 500(!) ‘trad metal’ albums, I was able to narrow it down to 50. Seriously, this took over a year of work. Please clap!

Obviously, more popular acts were going to get more mentions, so my only major criteria was no more than 2 albums per artist, and for an album to have been released after 2008. Similarly, no reunion albums from veteran bands were considered, despite their quality and importance to the movement. That’s a separate list 😉

*2008 was chosen as it was the release year for the debut albums for multiple major NWOTHM acts.

With that out of the way, I would like to quickly shoutout the forefathers of NWOTHM; 3 Inches of Blood, Wolf, Twisted Tower Dire, The Lord Weird Slough Feg, and of course the unholy trinity of Manilla Road, Cirith Ungol, and Heavy Load.

All bands and albums included in this list were selected through extensive independent research, drawing on reviews, interviews, mentions, and community discussions across multiple sources.

50. Spirit Adrift- Divided by Darkness (2019)49. Tanith- In Another Time (2019)48. Sanhedrin- Lights On (2022)47. Angel Sword- Rebels Beyond the Pale (2016)46. Helms Deep- Treacherous Ways (2023)45. Gatekeeper- From Western Shores (2023)44. The Wizar’d- Subterranean Exile (2020)43. Century- The Conquest of Time (2023)42. Haunt- Mind Freeze (2020)41. Konquest- Time and Tyranny (2022)40. Smoulder- Violent Creed of Vengeance (2023)39. Borrowed Time (2013)38. White Wizzard- Infernal Overdrive (2018)37. Smoulder- Times of Obscene Evil and Wild Daring (2019)36. In Solitude (2008)35. Tower- Shock to the System (2021)34. Skull Fist- Head öf the Pack (2011)33. Portrait- Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae (2011)32. Unto Others/Idle Hands- Mana (2019/2021)31. Riot City- Burn the Night (2019)30. Traveler- Termination Shock (2020)29. Triumpher- Storming the Walls (2023)28. Steelwing- Zone of Alienation (2012)27. Pharaoh- Bury the Light (2012)26. The Night Eternal- Fatale (2023)25. Briton Rites- For Mircalla (2010)24. Visigoth- Conqueror’s Oath (2018)23. Sonja- Loud Arriver (2022)22. Herzel- Le Dernier Rempart (2021)21. Lucifer’s Hammer- Be And Exist (2024)20. White Wizzard- Over the Top (2010)19. Phantom Spell- Immortal’s Requiem (2022)18. Crypt Sermon- The Ruins of Fading Light (2019)17. Sumerlands- Dreamkiller (2022)16. Steelwing- Lord of the Wasteland (2010)15. Enforcer- From Beyond (2015)14. Blood Star- First Sighting (2023)13. Savage Oath- Divine Battle (2024)12. Traveler (2019)11. Argus- Beyond the Martyrs (2013)10. Atlantean Kodex- The White Goddess (2013)9. Visigoth- The Revenant King (2015)8. Sacred Outcry- Towers of Gold (2023)7. Eternal Champion- Ravening Iron (2020)6. Sacred Outcry- Damned For All Time (2020)5. Satan’s Hallow (2017)4. Eternal Champion- The Armor of Ire (2016)3. In Solitude- Sister (2013)2. Demon Bitch- Hellfriends (2016)1. Enforcer- Diamonds (2010)

50. Spirit Adrift – Divided by Darkness (2019)
Representing a critical point in Spirit Adrift’s history is their 3rd full-length, wherein they begin to more fully shed their doom metal roots in favor of a traditional heavy metal sound. This gives Divided by Darkness a sound unlike the rest of their catalogue, a veritable ‘best of both worlds’ sort of album. While the more slow and doomy tracks like “Angel & Abyss” showcase front man Nate Garrett mastery of the melancholy with his sorrowful sounding words, other tracks, such as the opener “We Will Not Die” are more closer in-line with Spirit Adrift’s later work. Finally, it all culminates in the near-7-minute instrumental triumph that is “The Way of Return”.

49. Tanith – In Another Time (2019)
Reeking of Rush and Uriah Heep influences, plus a bit of Rainbow and Heart thrown in, Tanith might not seem like the typical NWOTHM act, and that’s true. But that’s also what makes them such a great part of the movement, their uniqueness. Featuring the awesome dual vocals of Cindy Maynard and Satan/Blind Fury/Pariah guitarist Russ Tippins, and with standouts like “Dionysus” and “Citadel (Galantia Pt.1)”, Tanith’s debut is one that is not to be missed, and one that I’m very glad I picked up on a blind buy.

48. Sanhedrin – Lights On (2022)
Much like Tanith, Sanhedrin takes a bit more influence from 70s progressive rock than one might expect for a trad metal band, but it’s that aspect that gives the Brooklyn band an easily identifiable sound. On this, their third record, Erica Stoltz’ incredible vocals ring out with tinges of everything from Ann Wilson to Joan Jett to Suzi Quatro, and even some touches of Janis Joplin. I still remember being blown away on my first listen, and there’s no such thing as diminished returns with this one. Standout tracks like “Scythian Women”, “Lost at Sea”, “Death is a Door”, and “Correction” make sure of that.

47. Angel Sword – Rebels Beyond the Pale (2016)
The debut record from the Helsinki foursome arguably remains their best. From the rough and ragged vocals, to the thumping of the drums, Rebels Beyond the Pale is as raw as it gets without it undermining the actual music in the slightest. Still present are Angel Sword’s almost uncanny melodies and the strangely blues-like guitar sections, particularly in the track “Midnight Survivor”. It reeks of NWOBHM influences with riffs straight outta Saxon and choruses like Holocaust, and even the little sprinklings of doom thrown in, but it’s that little jolt of melody that gives it such a cool feel.

46. Helms Deep – Treacherous Ways (2023)
Featuring two members of NWOBHM legends Raven, the perennially underrated John Gallagher and current Raven and former Fear Factory drummer Mike Heller, Helms Deep’s debut offering was a proper shot in the arm at its release. Right away from seeing the cover, I knew we were in for something special, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how perfect this record was. A major boon for this record is undoubtedly its production, something that many trad metal releases can fall short on, but not this one. Each piece of Helms Deep is crisp and clean, but there’s a still a rawness to the production to give it that nice metal sheen. While having that experienced talent behind the music might turn away some folks looking for fresh blood, Treacherous Ways has all of the freshness that a band of young twenty-somethings could put out but with twice the musicianship and technicality. Also, would you believe that this is somehow the first metal band named Helms Deep to put out a full-length record?

Honorable Mention #9: Skelator- Agents of Power (2012)

45. Gatekeeper – From Western Shores (2023)
Featuring Jeff Black, who is somehow connected to just about every Canadian trad/power band of the last 15 years, and Odinfist vocalist Tyler Anderson, Gatekeeper’s second full-length had a lot of talent behind it, and a lot of hype to live up to. Right from the start, From Western Shores presents itself in a more epic sense than its predecessor, East of Sun, which is still a banger. Of particular note is the way in which some of Anderson’s verses come off as near bardic, evoking some serious Blind Guardian influence. Nowhere is this felt more than in the 3rd track “Shadow and Stone”. Similarly, drummer Tommy Tro is absolutely on fire throughout the record. All of these pieces put together bring a monumental record that culminates in the nearly 9-minute- long triumph “Keepers of the Gate”.

44. The Wizar’d – Subterranean Exile (2020)
Another vanguard of the ‘doomed heavy metal’ micro-genre of trad metal, Australia’s The Wizar’d struck gold with their fourth, and most recent release. With vocals that sound like equal parts Mark the Shark (Manilla Road) and Terry Jones (Pagan Altar), riffs ripped straight from the mid-to-late seventies, think the heavier tracks from Blue Öyster Cult. All told, these pieces allow for the record to sit somewhere on the more Eternal Champion and Sumerlands side of NWOTHM. In this writer’s opinion, the second half of this record is masterful and worthy of more heavy praise. It’s a perfect record to listen to while you try to hunt down the evil warlord who killed your family.

43. Century – The Conquest of Time (2023)
I remember being hooked on Century when their ‘The Fighting Eagle’ single first dropped in 2022, and their debut full-length certainly did not disappoint. Featuring talents from fellow NWOTHM warriors Lethal Steel and Tþronto, there’s an air of experience permeating throughout the otherwise fresh-feeling album. With production to positively die for (seriously the bass-tone in this is immaculate, rivaling Satan ‘Court in the Act’, in my opinion), this stood out from the pack in a very crowded 2023 release lineup. On my relisten for this very list, this one shot up on my personal favorites list.

42. Haunt – Mind Freeze (2020)
Released right at the start of a thoroughly stacked year, Mind Freeze was Haunt’s 3rd full-length in as many years and the Trevor William Church train showed no signs of slowdown or fatigue. In fact, Mind Freeze is arguably the Haunt album to this day, it’s one that every collector of modern traditional heavy metal should own. The introduction of synthesizers/keys did wonders to set it apart from the crowded NWOTHM scene, and those same synths have been adapted by countless artists since then. With standouts like the title track and “Divide and Conquer”, Haunt’s Mind Freeze is a tour de force of heavy metal goodness.

41. Konquest – Time and Tyranny (2022)
The sophomore release from this Italian one-man project (except for live shows) is a prime example of how metal can remain both raw and melodic without losing any of what makes it ‘metal’, not to mention the exceptional riffage throughout. While the entire album is beyond solid, particularly “The Traveller”, it’s ultimately the 8 minute (9 if you include the penultimate intro) closing track “Warrior From A Future World” that steals the show. It presents a very late Golden Age Iron Maiden (Somewhere in Time/Seventh Son) inspired track with all of the gravitas that one would expect from such a comparison.

40. Smoulder – Violent Creed of Vengeance (2023)
One of my personal favorites of recent years, from a niche genre that I’ve grown quite familiar with of late (that of epic doom). Smoulder’s second full-length, features everything that made the original great, exemplary lyrics of sword-and-sorcery, killer album cover, and an insane set of pipes for vocalist Sarah Ann. When many hear the term ‘doom’, that may evoke thoughts of albums that plod along for over an hour or more and don’t go much of anywhere. Smoulder bucks that trend tenfold with shorter records that embark on great adventure. In particular, “Dragonslayer’s Doom” must be shouted out as an absolute all-timer.

Hon. Mention #8: Judicator- The Last Emperor (2018)

39. Borrowed Time (2013)
Somewhat of a forgotten gem of NWOTHM’s juvenility, and one that has retroactively became something of a ‘supergroup’ project that featured future talents from Gatekeeper, Viperwitch, Demon Bitch, Syrinx, Traveler, and more. While rife with a youthful rawness that would be refined on the members later projects, Borrowed Time’s sole full-length offers straight-up Manilla Road worship a few years before such a style became much more commonplace.

38. White Wizzard – Infernal Overdrive (2018)
The band’s final album before their brief break-up featured the return of vocalist Wyatt “Screamin’ Demon” Anderson, and in many ways is sort of the White Wizzard equivalent to Judas Priest’s classic ‘Painkiller’ record. It’s also one of the more beefy albums on this list, clocking in at over 61 minutes. In fact, that extra meat, combined with the more intricate song structures of earlier albums, gives this one an almost progressive feel at points. If you’re familiar with White Wizzard’s discography, this album is a lot like the second half of their 2011 sophomore album “Flying Tigers”, wherein the final half of the album is much more progressive and conceptual.

37. Smoulder – Times of Obscene Evil and Wild Daring (2019)
From the moment of the first chord on “Ilian of Garathorm”, you know you’re in for something special. This was the album that first turned me onto epic doom, and led to me find the members other projects like Manacle and Olórin, which only dug me deeper and deeper down the dungeon of doom. Ultimately, Smoulder’s debut offers much of the same that its successor would later bring to the table, that being awesome sword-and-sorcery epic doom. Why this one ranked higher than its successor came down to one of the few personal biases I allowed into this list; I slightly prefer the production on this one. Kevin Hester’s drums and Sarah Ann’s vocals just felt like they had a bit more oomph here. But this was a super close one. Smoulder’s EP Dream Quest Ends also deserves a mention, as it’s arguably on par with both full-length records.

36. In Solitude (2008)
The debut from one of the premier acts of the early trad metal revival wasted no time in winning over fans of the old school, with an opening riff ripped straight out of the 80s. Throughout a listen, it becomes clear that In Solitude draws more from the Mercyful Fate/King Diamond side of things as opposed to the Iron Maiden side, but with a bit of the ruggedness of early Bathory or Celtic Frost. They’re very much a band whose influence only continues to grow, as more and more artists in the trad scene harken back to them. With most of the members still in their teens, or just about to leave them, at the time of release In Solitude’s first effort is one that is filled with an angsty youthfulness that is nearly impossible to replicate as a band ages. It’s rough, it’s raw, and it’s pure heavy fn’ metal.

Hon. Mention #7: Sölicitör- Spectral Devastation (2020)

35. Tower – Shock to the System (2021)
Released in 2021, a few years after Tower endured a brief breakup, Shock to the System is an achievement in the more hard rockin’ side of trad metal (a la Freeways). I can’t discuss this record and not talk about Sarabeth’s simple incredible set of pipes, her screams and wails are unlike any other. Seriously, I have no idea how she didn’t destroy her vocal chords after the opening track “Blood Moon”. With additional highlights like “Lay Down the Law” and “Running Out of Time” This is a record that is definitely an example of ‘all killer, no filler’.

34. Skull Fist – Head öf the Pack (2011)
What a strong start these Canadian lads had! It was very much a coin flip between this one and its follow-up ‘Chasing A Dream’. Following in the footsteps of fellow speed/trad metallers Enforcer and Metalian, Skull Fist’s debut presents an onslaught of frenetically paced speed metal with enough melody to leak over into power metal territory. The rip-roaring title track that opens the album is only a tiny taste of the pure and unfiltered speed metal ensemble that awaits further into the album’s 43 minute runtime. In particular, the final two tracks “No False Metal” and the Tokyo Blade cover “Attack Attack” stand as highlights and a great way to close the record.

33. Portrait – Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae (2011)
The sophomore release from these Swedish Mercyful Fate worshippers began a streak that continues to this day; one of consistency. Each of Portrait’s now six albums is good-to-great with not a stinker in the whole lot. Per Karlson’s incredibly pipes are on full display throughout, and with their own unique cadence to them in a way that makes them not at all derivative of the King himself. Wasting no time with the near 8 minute powerhouse “Beast of Fire”, CLMD offers more than another MF/KD homage band, the songs are all beefy in length that almost gives them a progressive element. That’s not even beginning to mention the absolute thunder behind the drumming from Anders Persson, or the twin riff beatdown behind the axes, or the nonstop thumping of the bass-axe (Are basses also called “axes”?). Upon a relisten for this list, I found myself falling deeper in love with this record than before. Definitely check it out!

32. Unto Others/Idle Hands – Mana (2019/2021)
Their only release under their original name of Idle Hands, the debut from Unto Others burst out with a unique brand of trad metal that may sound almost antonymic to the term NWOTHM. With influences permeating from deathrock like Christian Death and Sisters of Mercy, to more contemporary metal influences like Ghost and In Solitude. These influences all come together into something that sounds like a modern-day successor to Danzig and Samhain.

31. Riot City – Burn the Night (2019)
Loud, proud, and loud again. Riot City’s debut is as in-your-face as speed metal can possibly get, with frontman Cale Savy’s high-pitched shrieks being reminiscent of some of Cam Pipes’ (3 Inches of Blood) more shrieky moments. No time is wasted, with the opening track “Warrior of Time” being a proper blitz of speed metal goodness. The title track which followed was similar, but it’s after that where Riot City gets to truly showcase what they can do. Flirting with slower more ballad-y type moments, and even dances with punk and epic metal. Furthermore, drummer Chad Vallier, who also drummed on all three Traveler releases, is simply on another level on this record.

Hon. Mention #6: Crypt Sermon- Out of the Garden (2015)

30. Traveler – Termination Shock (2020)
The second record from the Can-Am connection flourished a slightly sharper production and more comprehensive songwriting. “Shaded Mirror” hits high right out of the gate with its anthemic chorus and locomotive drum and bass, while the title track radiates of glam/AOR influence in its vocal deliveries. The real show-stealer here is “Deepspace” which a never ending speed metal assault with some of the hardest hitting drumming I’ve ever heard in trad metal.

29. Triumpher – Storming the Walls (2023)
One of the bastions of trad metal in recent years is that of Greece, and that is in no small part due to the efforts of Triumpher. Though only two records into a great career, they’ve sallied forth as a vanguard of the Hellenic metal scene. Right from the onset of “Journey/Europa Victrix”, you know you’re in for something a bit more on the epic side than traditional trad metal (trad-trad), as vocalist Mars Triumph lets out some insane Halford-like screams. As the album progresses and the influences become more apparent, including with some growls akin to Cradle of Filth, an even richer tapestry becomes apparent. Triumpher’s debut is truly something special among NWOTHM.

28. Steelwing- Zone of Alienation (2012)
Dearly departed Swedish Steelwing makes their first of two appearances on this list, with their sophomore effort being released right as trad metal was just beginning to erupt from the under-underground. Sci-fi inspired lyrics, an all-time album cover, and all of the youthful vigor that a band could ask for. “Full Speed Ahead” stands out as a highlight, as well as the first Steelwing track I heard. That one track might mislead you into thinking this was a standard heavy/speed album, but no, its influences stretch even into glam territory. While Steelwing is no more, its members, for the most part, continue in other projects, namely the epic doom band Below.

27. Pharaoh – Bury the Light (2012)
Definitely one that skews much further to the power metal side of the NWOTHM spectrum, but one that should still be viewed as a trad metal masterclass. Featuring former Control Denied vocalist, the late and great Tim Aymar, and Chris Black (High Spirits, Dawnbringer, Aktor) on drums, Pharaoh’s penultimate release is a testament to the experience behind the music. The Eric Adams’ like screams of Aymar are a major piece of why this record is so good, and why his loss continues to be felt deeply within the underground metal community.

26. The Night Eternal – Fatale (2023)
The second full-length from the German goth-infused trad metallers boasts even more of the infectious vocals of Ricardo Baum, who has a truly captivating voice highly akin to Glenn Danzig. After an already strong eponymous EP, and an incredible debut album, The Night Eternal effectively shot into titan status of the trad metal scene. Most impressive is that the otherwise gothic sheen over the music somehow does not lead the music down the path morosity, instead then music skews closer to The Cramps than to Sisters of Mercy or Joy Division. Of particular note is the incredible guitar tone, and of course the lyrics themselves, lending themselves well to scene painting in one’s own head.

Hon. Mention #5: Amethyst- Throw Down the Gauntlet (2024)

25. Briton Rites- For Mircalla (2010)
The most straightforward doom metal release on this list by far, but I ultimately felt like Briton Rites was worthy of inclusion (as did a lot of other folks!). With Howie Bentley (Cauldron Born) on bass and guitars and Phil Swanson (Seamount, Upwards of Endtime) on vox, there’s no denying the experience and talent behind Briton Rites. Don’t be put off by that earlier ‘doom metal’, this is less Electric Wizard or Sleep and more Reverend Bizarre or Cathedral (with a lot of Trouble and Pentagram in there). With the shortest of seven tracks still clocking in at nearly 7-minutes, this is a beefy album, and it’s one that needs to be played loud.

24. Visigoth – Conqueror’s Oath (2018)
Boasting the same lineup as all previous releases, Visigoth’s sophomore album immediately puts to bed any notions of a slump, as Conqueror’s Oath officially kicks off a hot streak for the band. As the anthemic “Steel and Silver” begins the album with a bang, one is met with an album that is a bit less D&D lyrically speaking and more straight-up sword and sorcery. Of particular praise is the drumming of Mikey T. which pounds and thunders throughout the album, but in particular on the track “Outlive Them All”.

23. Sonja – Loud Arriver (2022)
Another in the lineup of trad metal/goth rock hybrid acts of recent years, Sonja features talents from primarily black and death metal acts like Crosspitter and Absu. The biggest thing this album has going for it is by far the hypnotic vocal stylings of frontwoman Melissa Moore, though that’s not to take anything away from the remainder of the three-piece. A sense of sensuality infects the music as well, largely from the lustful lyrics, and Melissa’s voice, that gives the entire a album a sort of sleazy/glam vibe to it, that I think truly works wonders and allows Sonja to stand out brightly from the pack.

22. Herzel – Le Dernier Rampart (2021)
Sung entirely in French, Herzel’s debut stands unique among the epic metal crowd with lyrics that primarily focus on history (particularly that of the band’s native Brittany) as opposed to more fantastical elements. I feel that the French language really lends itself to rock and metal for reasons that I can’t quite explain. This is 36 minutes of pure perfection, where every single moment of each of its six tracks is a vital component to the story told throughout the runtime. I also have to shoutout the production on all instruments, and the recurrent leitmotif that later acts as an outro for the record.

21. Lucifer’s Hammer – Be and Exist (2024)
Their final record before the horrific murder of frontman AndrĂ©s Adasme “Hades” was a strong one that now acts as something of a bittersweet epitaph to a titan of the underground metal scene. A highlight of the record is of course the incredible “Son of Earth”, which begins with an insane wail from AndrĂ©s, and later include some serious NWOBHM inspired soloing and basslines ala Satan. Wonderfully produced, expertly written, and played to absolute perfection, if this is to be the final bow of Lucifer’s Hammer, they couldn’t have went out stronger. RIP AndrĂ©s.

Hon. Mention #4: Procession- To Reap Heavens Apart (2013)

20. White Wizzard – Over the Top (2010)
Released back in 2010, just as NWOTHM was beginning to really establish itself as a movement, White Wizzard’s debut featured what one would expect from such a thing: a record practically overflowing with youthful angst and Maiden-isms. With riffs right out of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, but more crisp production like some late 80s glam (but not the super over-produced stuff), White Wizzard’s sound laid the groundwork for later bands like Hitten, Cobra Spell, and Blizzen. However, White Wizzard does still buck the trend a bit, with the near-prog track “Iron Goddess of Vengeance”, which features everything from death growls to a Steve Harris bassline.

19. Phantom Spell – Immortal’s Requiem (2022)
One which is infuriatingly not included on Encyclopaedia Metallum, however, I won’t let that stop me from including a modern classic on this list. Brainchild of Seven Sisters guitarist/vocalist Kyle McNeill presents a trad metal album that leans more heavily into progressive rock, a lot like how Saracen was for NWOBHM bands. The vocals remind me of everyone from Brad Delp of Boston to Gary Moore, with a little bit of David Byron (Uriah Heep) and Buck Dharma (Blue Öyster Cult) in there as well. These influences, compounded by the positively grooving vibe throughout the record make Phantom Spell’s debut record a true masterpiece of NWOTHM, and one with which none sound alike.

18. Crypt Sermon – The Ruins of Fading Light (2019)
Philadelphia is sort of the heavy metal capital of the United States in the 21st century, with a proverbial horde of great bands hailing from the City of Brotherly Love, and chief among them are the epic doomers Crypt Sermon. Their second release includes “Key of Solomon”, which is honestly reason enough to warrant its inclusion on this list. A sense of rawness seeps throughout the record, but in a way that still manages to sound polished, and a lot of this stems from the incredible vocal performance from Brooks Wilson.

17. Sumerlands – Dream Killer (2022)
Sumerlands sophomore effort, and first with vocalist Brendan Radigan (Savage Oath, Magic Circle), blew me away from the moment it release and it has never once failed to sweep me off my feet. While, of course, Brendan’s vocal talents are at the forefront, giving this record a completely different vibe to it than their debut, the instrumentation offers a sensible meeting of heavy and intelligible, without losing the rawness that makes separates metal from hard rock. The main riff in the opener “Twilight Points the Way” is enough to warrant this album a place on this list, but it never loses its luster throughout it’s incredibly brisk 35 minute runtime.

16. Steelwing – Lord of the Wasteland (2010)
Opening with an air raid siren is generally always a good move, and that continues to be true for this album, the debut of Steelwing. This record presents the Swedish five-piece in a slightly more raw form than on Zone of Alienation, but it’s that bit of roughness that gives it a bit of fun character. “Roadkill (
or Be Killed)” is the first true standout on the album, and one that reminds me heavily of Mad Max, though that might just be because of the black muscle car on the album cover. From the high pitched vocals to the incredible riff-work on display from the guitar tandem, this is like if Mercyful Fate was on speed.

Hon. Mention #3: Striker- Armed to the Teeth (2012)

15. Enforcer – From Beyond (2015)
One of particular importance for yours truly, as, not only was Enforcer the first NWOTHM band I heard, this was the first trad metal album that I can recall hearing. I remember being distinctly bewitched by their corny, in a good way, music videos for tracks like “Undying Evil”, as well as the anthemic wails on “The Banshee”. The freneticism of their speed metal, combined with Olof Wikstrand’s ear-piercing and occasional King Diamond-esque shrieks. This entire record was on repeat for me during my high school years (I’m only 27 haha) and was what I’d show my classmates when they’d ask what kind of music I was into. If this list were solely subjective, expect this one to easily be in the Top 5.

14. Blood Star – First Sighting (2023)
While the debut single/EP from Salt Lake City’s Blood Star was my first exposure to the band, their debut full-length was just as mind-blowing. Featuring talents from their NWOTHM kinsmen like Unto Others and Silver Talon, First Sighting struck me first and foremost as more genre-bending than I’d first thought. Madeline Smith’s vocals are unique and divine, and the track “The Observers”, in which guitarist Jamison Palmer takes up the mic was the perfect jolt of versatility to an already great record. Standout tracks like the aforementioned “The Observers”, as well as “Fearless Priestess” and “Wait to Die”, only help to further the growing legend of Blood Star.

13. Savage Oath – Divine Battle (2024)
Brendan Radigan makes another appearance on this list with the spell-bounding debut record from heavy/epic metallers Savage Oath. From the get-go, the stage is set with lions roars and rattling chains, that sense of looming battle drawing near. Of course, Brendan’s vocals are second to none and that’s not in question here, but I’d also like to highlight the incredible drumming from Ryan Mower. The tempo he keeps throughout the album is insane, even in just the opening track “Knight of the Night”. Of the seven songs, one of which being a 3 minute interlude, there is not a moment wasted, and final trifecta of tracks after that aforementioned interlude are truly something special.

12. Traveler (2019)
The debut album from the Canadian/American band began what would become a great and consistent, albeit brief, run that only just culminated at the top of 2025. Featuring an all-star team of trad metal musicians from bands like Striker, Hrom, Among These Ashes, and Kontact, Traveler’s debut is a testament to the talent behind the music. Wasting no time by ripping out “Starbreaker” right out of the gate, and not letting up for even a moment during its sub 40-minute runtime. Even the brief intermission track “Konamized” has its place on the record as a wonderful dash of savvy instrumental fun.

11. Argus – Beyond the Martyrs (2013)
The third full-length from these Pennsylvania epic doomers builds upon the already masterfully chiseled foundations of their self-titled debut and Boldly Stride the Doomed. Released still during the earlier years of NWOTHM, Beyond the Martyrs stands alongside few others (more on them soon) as the catalyst for the resurgence of epic doom that would be spearheaded by Crypt Sermon, Smoulder, and others. With chuggingly brutal riffs and some proper near-operatic vocals from Butch Balich, Argus’ third record is not only one of the finest releases in trad metal, but also one of the best in epic doom. I must also single out “The Coward’s Path” as being a true banger!

Hon. Mention #2: Holy Grail- Ride the Void (2013)

10. Atlantean Kodex – The White Goddess (2013)
One of several albums on this list that I debated including, not for lack of quality, but if it actually qualified as NWOTHM or not. I eventually determined that Atlantean Kodex’s brand of epic heavy/doom counted (deal with it). While their debut record was marvelous, in my opinion, it was on their sophomore release where AK really came into their own and very much became the modern day equivalent of Manilla Road. This is an album that would be difficult to review, as it simply needs to be experienced to fully understand how good it is. It’s an all-timer, bar none.

9. Visigoth – The Revenant King (2015)
For many, 2015 is the year that they first heard the term ‘New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal’, and Visigoth’s debut is a huge reason why. While not the first ‘epic metal’ band by a longshot, Visigoth was the first who worshipped at Pagan Altars and Manilla Roads, the latter of which they covered on this record, to achieve some semblance of mainstream success. With lyrics that are equal parts Dungeons & Dragons inspired and just general sword and sorcery themes, the songwriting feels like the perfect blend of nerdy cheesiness and serious musicianship. At no point does the record feel like it’s taking a stab at its own audience (something some nerdy bands should work on), instead it feels like a perfect homage to the earlier days of heavy metal. Also, the track “Dungeon Master” is an all-timer.

8. Sacred Outcry – Towers of Gold (2023)
Initially active from 1998 to 2004, Sacred Outcry was little more than a footnote in heavy metal history for ages, even after their 2015 reformation. Their debut was a masterclass in old school power metal, and its follow up was just as strong (possibly even stronger, depending on who you ask). With former Lost Horizon vocalist Daniel Heiman on vocals this time around, giving a sense of gravitas to the record. If you’re not familiar, Lost Horizon casually dropped two all-time records in the early 00s before breaking up. On this release, Sacred Outcry has weathered the storm a bit, aging like a fine wine as they hone their already impressive skills even further. Their remains a show-stealing 15 minute title track as the penultimate offering, but not a moment of this album is skippable. The final track, the shortest proper track by far, “Where the Crimson Shadows Dwell” is of particular quality. On top of that, there are some seriously incredible riffs to be found throughout.

7. Eternal Champion – Ravening Iron (2020)
Another band who proudly flies the banner previously carried in triumph by Manilla Road and Manowar is Eternal Champion. With loud and rowdy, and yet still tight, instrumentation, combined to perfection with the almost bardic way in which frontman Jason Tarpey delivers each lyric. Every crash of the drums hits with the force of a shield wall, while the thundering basslines throughout boom out like bombs. Much akin to Visigoth, this is perfect music to pillage some coastal villages and slay some slumbering serpents, but it’s also just perfect tunes to chill out and play Skyrim or Witcher.

6. Sacred Outcry – Damned For All Time (2020)
This was a long awaited debut, and one that simply could not have possibly prepared anyone for how good it would be. Since its release, Sacred Outcry have been putting out some of the best old school power metal heard this century. Upon release, this record injected a sense of non-nonsense and no-frills energy into the power metal scene to break it free from the trite clutches of meme bands. Everything about this record, and its sequel we discussed a bit ago, is what power metal should be. With vocalist Yannis from Beast in Black behind the microphone (But not officially a member), there’s a familiarity with the vocals, yet it still feels somehow retro in a good way. Not even beginning to mention the near 15 minute title track that is assuredly an all-timer.

Hon. Mention #1: Mirror- Pyramid of Terror (2019)

5. Satan’s Hallow (2017)
Now this is truly an all-star project that featured future members and founds of Black Sites, Midnight Dice, Lethal Shöck, and Fer de Lance, and that backs the eponymous album Satan’s Hallow a true piece of trad metal history. It’s a pity that it’s out-of-print and, to my knowledge, not available on any streaming service. This is an album that will reach legendary, near mythical, status in the years and decades to come. Mandy Martillo’s vocals have a heavy influence from the Metal Queens of Yore; Doro Pesch, Ann Boleyn, Lee Aaron, Leather Leone, and even a bit of Jan Kuehnemund of Vixen (RIP). Featuring some of the best bass tone ever heard in NWOTHM, courtesy of Lee Smith (Professor Emeritus), and some incredible drumming from Pat Gloeckle (who is also a co-owner of Hoove Child Records). That’s not even scratching the surface of the simple immaculate axe-work on display from the duo of Von Jugel and Lethal Beaudette. This record also boasts a Heavy Metal Hat Trick, with an eponymous track on the eponymous album.

4.. Eternal Champion – The Armor of Ire (2016)
From the moment I first thought up this list, I knew that Eternal Champion’s monumental debut would be high on it. Even at a first glance, the Adam Burke painted album cover tells you exactly what you’re in for, some proper Manilla Road worship, and while that’s undoubtedly what Eternal Champion is, this record is much more than a mere homage. There’s a doom-tinged bite to the riffing, and the drums crash like army on the march. Given when it released, it’s so easy now to look back and see just how much this record influenced the modern trad metal scene, but back then, there wasn’t anything like it out in the mainstream (or close to it). I first heard “Last King of Pictdom” on Pandora, of all things, back around release, and it was clear then that Eternal Champion was offering something truly special. But even I couldn’t have guessed that they’d effectively kickstarted the revival of epic metal, a microgenre kept afloat for decades by a few dedicated artists and fans, that was now on the frontline in the fight against over-produced corporate schlock.

3. In Solitude – Sister (2013)
Next we go from a triumphant debut to an awe-inspiring swansong, with the final record from Sweden’s In Solitude. Befitting for a last album, Sister shows a maturation of the band’s sound right out of the gate. “He Comes” is slower and almost dissonant track set to sparse, and almost melancholic guitarwork, its almost avant-garde or even post-metal. Building upon that is a gothic sense of atmosphere for the whole album that In Solitude had been gradually leaning toward, with their previous record “The World, The Flesh, The Devil” signaling that nicely. Nothing, and I mean nothing, could possibly prepare you though for how damn good “Lavender” is. It’s unlike anything In Solitude ever did, there’s almost a funkiness to it, but also with a touch of horror movie scores and deathrock. From then on, the album drifts into an almost near-progressive quality, with Rush-like basslines and Dream Theater riffing. In fact, the entire back half of Sister is some of the best metal that I’ve ever heard, trad notwithstanding.

2. Demon Bitch – Hellfriends (2016)
Our penultimate entry on the list is the debut record from the Motor City’s own Demon Bitch. Clocking at a brisk 35 minutes, Hellfriends is one that both doesn’t overstay its welcome and has precisely no filler. Equal parts epic and raw in its production, it’s a record that is without compare in the realm of NWOTHM. Demon Bitch’s unique sound is one that few bands have been able to come close to, and that uncanniness is a part of what gives it such gravitas. Less NWOBHM-worship than most trad metal acts, and more of a natural evolution of what metal could’ve evolved into without interference from major labels and corporate execs. With the brutal punchiness of black metal and the crisp vocal work of power metal, Demon Bitch’s Hellfriends is a totem of what modern trad metal should be, could be, and would become.

1. Enforcer – Diamonds (2010)
The sophomore release from one of trad metal’s biggest bands could very easily be argued as a coming out party for NWOTHM. Produced to absolute perfection, with that familiar Enforcer gnarl from the guitars, a grooving bass tone, and some insane drumming from Jonas Wikstrand, and of course Olof’s banshee shrieks. This record combines all of what makes metal metal, there’s pieces taken from power metal, speed metal, glam, and even more extreme sides of things like black and death metal. Far more than a flash-in-the-pan Iron Maiden clone, Enforcer not only made their name known, they forced people to scream it from the rooftops. It’s in-your-face, and unceasing, and yet somehow polished. In short, it’s perfect. From the opening drumroll and bluesy intro guitar of “Midnight Vice”, all the way through the closing notes of “Take Me to Hell”, Enforcer’s Diamonds is not just the greatest NWOTHM album, but it’s one of the strongest metal albums of the 21st century, period.

Thanks for reading! If you’ve made it this far, I’ll reward you with a little teaser for my next (smaller) list:
NWO_HM. Up the Irons!

Read More Features

#1 #2 #3 #3InchesOfBlood #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #Absu #Aktor #AmongTheseAshes #angelSword #Argus #atlanteanKodex #bathory #BeastInBlack #Below #BlackSites #BlindFury #BlindGuardian #Blizzen #bloodStar #blueOysterCult #BorrowedTime #Boston #britonRites #Cathedral #CelticFrost #Century #cirithUngol #CobraSpell #ControlDenied #CradleOfFilth #Crosspitter #CryptSermon #DD #Danzig #Dawnbringer #demonBitch #DoomMetal #doro #DreamTheater #DungeonsDragons #ElectricWizard #enforcer #epicDoomMetal #eternalChampion #FearFactory #FerDeLance #Freeways #gatekeeper #ghost #Halford #haunt #Heart #HeavyLoad #HeavyMetal #HelmsDeep #Herzel #HIGHSPIRITS #HITTEN #Holocaust #hrom #inSolitude #IronMaiden #JoyDivision #JudasPriest #kingDiamond #Konquest #Kontact #LethalShock #list #LostHorizon #LuciferSHammer #MagicCircle #Manacle #manillaRoad #Manowar #mercyfulFate #metalian #midnightDice #MidnightDive #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwobhm #NWOTHM #Olorin #paganAltar #Pariah #pentagram #PhantomSpell #Pharaoh #portrait #powerMetal #ProfessorEmeritus #rainbow #raven #ReverendBizarre #riotCity #SacredOutcry #SaintVitus #Samhain #sanhedrin #satan #SatanSHallow #savageOath #saxon #SilverTalon #SistersOfMercy #SkullFist #Skyrim #Sleep #sloughFeg #SMOULDER #sonja #speedMetal #SpiritAdrift #Steelwing #striker #sumerlands #Syrinx #Tanith #TheCramps #TheLordWeirdSloughFeg #TheNightEternal #TheWizarD #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tokyoBlade #tower #traveler #triumpher #UntoOthers #UriahHeep #viperwitch #visigoth #vixen #WhiteWizzard #Wolf

~andwilsumpfsuppe
2025-09-03

Wenn mich jemand sucht, ich bin in der Autumn Citadel tidal.com/browse/track/4442199

Ausschnitt aus den Simpsons. Homer liegt eingekuschelt und scheinbar zufrieden mit sich selbst und der Welt im Bett.
2025-08-24

Record(s) o’ the Month – July 2025

By Angry Metal Guy

In this mad dash towards relevance and timeliness, it can be tough to come up with things to say that don’t feel a little clichĂ©. But the reality is that this whole path has been leading here. I had hoped to have a really special surprise ready for this day, but alas, I have pulled a classic Attention Deficit Disorder Guy move, filling my schedule up with stuff that hits me right in the dopamine. I’ve got reviews to write, n00bs to torture, and I have a fancy new vacuum cleaner that both vacuums and mops, so my apartment is as clean as it has ever been. I watched that K-pop Demon Hunters movie, and listened to this incredible vocal cover of it from the singer of Twilight Force way too many times. I got a crash course in super cheesy Latin ballads since the 1980s. I wrote a long-ass post about Why Spotify Sucks n’ Shit and then fought with everyone in the comments for days. I am an unregulated, but surprisingly productive, bench.1 So, sans surprise, I am soldiering on to bring you the Record(s) o’ the Month for July 2025, as close as I’ve been to on time all year. Incidentally, the Record o’ the Month matches my messy bench energy pretty much perfectly.

I told you that Calva Louise’s most recent opus—entitled Edge of the Abyss [Bandcamp] and out July 11th, 2025, from Mascot Records—was going to be my most controversial Record o’ the Month since Our Oceans.2 I don’t think it should be, of course. I think it should be appreciated for the fascinating blend of genres that it represents, as well as the talent—and sheer drive—of a band that truly has dragged itself through the dregs of a dying music industry with an incredible DIY ethic to produce a kick ass record with a gorgeous and powerful blend of ideas. Edge of the Abyss is an act of becoming, a sketch, a step towards finally getting one’s vision down on paper, tape, or film. It’s adventurous, thoughtful, beautiful, and diverse—an invigorating assemblage of ideas ranging from groovecore to Viennese classical to mĂșsica llanera, spanning the globe and decades for inspiration. It’s music that is truly progressive, if not overly technical. But setting that aside, Edge of the Abyss just works. The fragments have a cinematic feel that the band carries through to its visual profile, with strong songwriting and a cinematic universe that they have been trying to bring into being for four albums. As an overly excited Me Myself gushed to anyone who would listen: “Some records sound big, and some records feel big. Edge of the Abyss does both. It feels big because it has ideas, and it succeeds because it commits to those ideas with zero regard for genre gatekeeping or scene politics. It’s weird, catchy, and gleefully sophisticated, with every song bringing something unique to the table. Every idea and every arrangement counts. It’s a banger parade,” and it’s a promise that there’s so much more to come.

A special note: Calva Louise will be going on their first headlining tour of the US this September [find dates and tickets]. Go see them and tell them that Angry Metal Guy sent you.

Runner(s) Up:

Sarastus // Agony Eternal [July 1st, 2025 | Dominance of Darkness Records | Bandcamp] — One of the best things about being Angry Metal Guy is being able to ask people during arguments which of us has “the eponymous website that hundreds of thousands of people visit monthly.” A close second is discovering shit that no one has heard of and throwing it into the chat, all “Oh, Grier, you need to check out Sarastus! Great black metal without the label atmospheric anywhere near it!” Because I knew from the word go that Agony Eternal was something special and whatever It is, Sarastus has It in spades.3 There’s a specific vibe here that reminds me not just of the sound of late-90s/early-00s melodic black metal, but the feel—hungry, heavy, and addictive. Sarastus doesn’t lean away from attack, but neither do these Finns just blanket the world in blast beats; they find strength in diversity and slick songwriting. Agony Eternal is the kind of record that reminds you of why black metal was such a vital gateway to extreme metal once upon a time. Fast, heavy, extreme, and melodic, it evokes the exact feeling that I need from my black metal: Agony Eternal. And I wasn’t alone, an excited, nimble-fingered Kenfrenstrosity swiped Sarastus from both Myself and Grier, and then rode that hype machine over the cliff like a Once and Future King: “Agony Eternal is a nonstop party. With almost poppy energy, Sarastus captured with remarkable simplicity and undeniable effectiveness the passion and conviction that made black metal of this kind a sensation. But I hear more than just black metal purism. I hear a confident, exuberant soul rooted in rock n’ roll rebellion, forged in timeless techniques, and steeped in metallic traditions across the spectrum.” Sarastus, Life of the Party!

Impureza // Alcázares [July 11th, 2025 | Season of Mist | Bandcamp] — When it comes to inventive ways to make your death metal cooler, Impureza has one of my favorites. The blending of flamenco—one of the world’s coolest non-metal styles of music—and death metal is a hard row to hoe, but somehow these French death metallers have gotten the balance right. This wasn’t always the case, but Alcázares is the perfect refinement of what was already a pretty well-developed idea. What’s fun is that Impureza has started taking on an almost melodic death feel at times, reminiscent of Æeternam at their best.4 But there’s a brutality evocative of the era in death metal history when Black Seeds of Vengeance was considered to be the peak of death metal evolution. And at this point, I’m just fucking here for all of it. In My Frothy Excitement, I sandblasted the Internet with words: “Alcázares is Impureza at their most ambitious: historically immersed, sonically expansive, blasphemous, and super into alternative histories of colonialism.5 Alcázares is a violent, poetic invocation of Spain’s medieval imagination, and it sports an enchanting vibe that recalls some of the best records I own. Seven years of development resulted in a record full of tight riffs, beautiful guitar work, intense compositions, and somehow a Necromancer. I would say that I hope to see something from them soon, but I’m happy to wait another seven years for another record of this quality.” Enjoy ov Orphaned-Land-Sized Breaks between Albums. I’ll be ready for you to blow my mind again in 2032.

Phantom Spell // Heather & Hearth [July 18th, 2025 | Cruz del Sur Music | Bandcamp] — Phantom Spell was a real surprise for me. Sometimes you go into a record knowing you like the band. But Phantom Spell, I wouldn’t have looked twice at it if I hadn’t just clicked play on the promo. And man, it’s risky having a 12-minute track as the opener for your album. But that’s the kind of risk that Kyle McNeill takes and, honestly, it paid off. I knew Heather & Hearth was going to be quality when I bobbed my head through the whole 11 minutes and 51 seconds of “The Autumn Citadel,” only to look up and realize it was 11 minutes and 51 seconds long. And that’s the trick with Heather & Hearth; it catches you off guard. Whether it’s the organ tones stolen directly from The Snow Goose, the guitar solos that taste like shag carpet, or the vocal harmonies that make Mikael Åkerfeldt jelly, everything works to perfection while sounding great. Rather than feeling like nostalgiacore, Phantom Spell feels authentic, powerful, and is a truly addictive listen. As I babbled as loudly as anyone would allow me: “This is a great record, and the only thing left for Heather & Hearth to prove is that it has staying power. From the opening ‘bew bew bews’ of the organs, to the *insert nature sounds here* that close the album out, Heather & Hearth is a triumphant exploration of songwriting from a different time. Phantom Spell makes me genuinely long for a time when it would have been impossible for Phantom Spell—a solo project—to exist. And that’s an amazing success.”

#2025 #AgonyEternal #AlcĂĄzares #BlogPost #CalvaLouise #EdgeOfTheAbyss #Gazpacho #HeatherHearth #Impureza #Jul25 #MascotRecords #MĂșsicaLlanera #PhantomSpell #Sarastus #TwilightForce

2025-07-24

Phantom Spell – Heather & Hearth Review

By Angry Metal Guy

During the 16 years that AMG has been a thing, I have criticized the trend of reaching back for the sounds of yore and creating high-fidelity copies. Dubbed “Nostalgiacore,” I regularly razzed Steel Druhm about his obsession with his lost glory days and heartily rolled my eyes at Rethrash. I thumbed my nose at the 3,500 bands a week we were getting in 2015, wearing bell-bottoms and writing Black Sabbath riffs 45 years after Black Sabbath was released; each rehashing blues rock as though originality was a four-letter word and fuzz pedals were personality. But recently, perhaps sick of the downward spiral towards the ever more “atmospheric” and “brutal,” I have found the simple pleasures of “good, honest heavy metal” calling to me. First, it was Wytch Hazel, then it was Grendel’s Syster. Now, it’s Phantom Spell’s Heather & Hearth.

Phantom Spell is the brainchild of Seven Sisters singer and guitarist Kyle McNeill.1 A multi-instrumentalist, studio magician, and eminent purveyor of nostalgiacore,2 Phantom Spell calls back to the days of Steel Druhm‘s youth, when men were men and rockstars could play instruments. When songs were melodic and catchy, but the guys writing them had all studied piano since the age when their moms could smack them upside the head with impunity, so they were good at music, if, admittedly, slightly traumatized. And Phantom Spell hews close to this tradition, featuring what sounds like a fully functional ’70s prog unit. Strong drums and earthy bass rumble beneath lightly distorted guitars—liable to drop into harmonies at any second, exposing the rhythm section. It calls to mind Manilla Road and Kansas, Wishbone Ash, or even early Iron Maiden. But when the Hammond kicks in on opener “The Autumn Citadel,” I get flashbacks to The Summer of Camel.

Like its musical forebears, Phantom Spell pops because of its composition and vocals. McNeill has an ear for classic prog structures—shifting time signatures, dueling guitar leads, and that organ that instantly dates the sound—but what elevates Heather & Hearth is how he binds these elements to purposeful songwriting. The record never feels like a pastiche; instead, it plays like a Tolkienesque love letter written in the margins of well-worn records, borrowing vocabulary but constructing its own syntax. Tracks like “A Distant Shore” and “Siren Song” fuse supple melodic phrasing with rhythmic variation, while “Evil Hand” twists in a familiar rock chassis that both evokes Tom Petty’s classic “Refugee” and Opeth. McNeill’s range—from his surprisingly strong low register (reminiscent of Eric Clayton from Saviour Machine [“The Autumn Citadel”]) to his cherubic high end—carries emotional weight without ever rubbing shoulders with cheesy. He layers harmonies like someone who grew up singing along to Leftoverture or The Snow Goose, and he knows when to pull everything back to let a bass groove breathe. Heather & Hearth is littered with excellent choices that suggest a composer with taste. McNeill understands balance and crafted an album that features it.

But no record truly pops without top-notch production. One of the genuine strengths of Heather & Hearth is a strong sense of balance. I’m reminded of Exile by Black Sites, where traditional hard rock composition and perfectly balanced production combined to create a live feel. So too, McNeill picks his spots, never overloading the mix or betraying the illusion of a live band.3 His production lends to the realism of the production by leaving the bass and drums as exposed elements when keys and guitars drop into harmonies (“Evil Hand,” for example). The feel is classic and beautiful, showing off the perfect balance that he’s struck with the tone. Some of this feels like an illusion, however. When listening closely to the harmonies, for example, in the gorgeous bonus track “Old Pendle,” they sound inhumanly tight, which suggests careful and aggressive processing.4

Taken as a whole, I particularly appreciate Heather & Hearth’s structure. Clocking in at about 37 minutes, the record is bookended by two 11-minute songs and filled in with shorter tracks. The composition ebbs and flows between the energetic and the melancholic and fragile. These mountains and valleys are both a strength and a weakness. For me, McNeill reaches his peak when he’s moving and shaking. There is an undeniable energy when the bass and drums are pulsing and he’s throwing off shackles, harmonizing guitars, and driving the music forward. The other side to Phantom Spell is achingly beautiful, and things I love on their own. But the strength of the album is its strong proto-metal heart, and I wish I could hear it beating a little louder throughout.

This is a great record, and the only thing left for Heather & Hearth to prove is that it has staying power. From the opening “bew bew bews” of the organs, to the *insert nature sounds here* that close the album out, Heather & Hearth is a triumphant exploration of songwriting. From the melodies to the solos to the amazing harmonies, Phantom Spell sounds like a band with huge aspirations. For that reason, it is actually a little disappointing that it’s a solo project. In my listening notes, I wrote: “My god, imagine finding five dudes who could sing these harmonies live in 2025.” Phantom Spell makes me genuinely long for a time when it would have been impossible for Phantom Spell to exist. And while that’s an amazing success, it’s a bittersweet one.

Rating: Great!
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320kb/s CBR MP3s
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Websites: phantomspell.bandcamp.com | http://linktr.ee/phantomspell
Release Date: July 18th, 2025

 

#2025 #40 #BlackSites #Camel #CruzDelSurMusic #HeatherHearth #IronMaiden #Jul25 #Kansas #ManillaRoad #NWOTHM #Opeth #PaleCommunion #PhantomSpell #ProgressiveMetal #ProgressiveRock #Review #Reviews #SaviourMachine #SevenSisters #TomPetty #TradMetal #WishboneAsh

Kyle McNeill photo 2025
2025-06-02

DemnĂ€chst: #PhantomSpell veröffentlicht am 18.07. „Heather & Hearth“.
YouTube-Clip zu ‚A Distant Shore‘: youtube.com/watch?v=ss19XOoe-S

🔗 gloomr.de/#1554

#NeuesAlbum

2025-02-15

"The Passing" is multi-instrumentalist #JacobRoberge's debut album. And what an effortless debut it is.

If you're into #ProgRock, this should be definitely on your #AOTY2025 list.

album.link/t3bkxfv8fn4hk

FFO #TomKelly #PhantomSpell #TusmĂžrke

Andreas Blohm :verified:ABlohm@bonn.social
2022-12-02

Mein #BandcampFriday endet, wie er begonnen hat: Mit einer Empfehlung, diesmal von @KaiOliver. "Immortal's Requiem" von #PhantomSpell ist pures musikalisches VergnĂŒgen mit dem Besten, was folkig angehauchter #Prog & #Metal der 70er & 80er zu bieten haben.

phantomspell.bandcamp.com/albu

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